There has always been plenty on the line in the Original Rivalry but this clash between Adelaide United and Melbourne Victory is vitally important for both clubs.
The Reds have moved into fourth spot on the back of a three-game unbeaten run, including last weekend’s 0-0 draw with Melbourne City.
Given the reward a top-four finish brings – a home Elimination Final – Marco Kurz’s side have plenty of motivation to topple the Big V on Friday night.
But Victory have their own reasons for requiring maximum points at Coopers Stadium.
Their late win over Central Coast Mariners on Sunday has moved them within two points of second-placed Sydney FC.
If the Sky Blues fail to beat Perth Glory 24 hours earlier, Victory will know that a win over Adelaide would see them jump into the all-important second position.
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It was Adelaide who took all three points the last time these two sides met at Coopers Stadium back in Round 12.
If the Reds can repeat the dose on Friday, it would be the first time since 2012/13 they will have secured back-to-back wins over Victory.
Pacy winger Nikola Mileusnic could be key to that happening. He has been directly involved in three of his club’s last four Hyundai A-League goals against Victory (1 goal, 2 assists).
Key Opta stats
- Five of the last eight Hyundai A-League games between Adelaide United and Melbourne Victory in South Australia have ended in a draw, with the visitors also picking up two wins in that time (L1).
- Victory will be looking to avoid back-to-back defeats away from home in the Hyundai A-League for the first time since April 2018, after they succumbed to a 2-1 defeat to Sydney FC in Round 24.
- The Reds have made an average of 17 open-play crosses per game this Hyundai A-League campaign, three more per game than any other team.
Ins and outs
Both squads will be announced on Thursday.
How to watch
Tune in to FOX SPORTS 505 to see whether Victory can stay in touch with second-placed Sydney FC, with kick-off at 7.50pm (AEST). You can also stream it live on the MyFootball Live App, or subscribe to Kayo Sports.
Tickets
CLICK HERE to secure your seat at Coopers Stadium for the always feisty Reds v Victory clash.
